SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5214

As of February 12, 2001

Title:  An act relating to the time for signing and receipt of absentee and mail ballots.

Brief Description:  Requiring absentee ballots to reach the auditor by election day.

Sponsors:  Senators Roach, Swecker, Hale and Johnson.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  State & Local Government:  2/14/01.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON STATE & LOCAL GOVERNMENT

Staff:  Aaron Jennings (786‑7445)

Background:  Absentee ballots must be signed and postmarked or deposited in the county auditor=s office by 8:00 pm the day of the election or primary.  If a postmark is illegible, the date on the return identification envelope where the voter attests will determine the absentee ballot=s validity.

Summary of Bill:  In-state absentee ballots must be signed by the date of the election or primary and arrive at the county auditor=s office by the time the polls are closed for the ballots to be counted.  Out-of-state, overseas, or  military service voters are still counted if the absentee ballot=s envelope is signed and mailed by the date of the election or primary.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Not requested.

Effective Date:  Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.